Important Swedish Celebrations and Holidays

Swedish culture is full of joyful celebrations throughout the year. These holidays often bring families and friends together through food, music, lights, and special traditions. Here are three of the most important holidays that children and adults in Sweden look forward to every year.

Advent: A Season of Light and Songs

Advent marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Sweden. It starts four Sundays before Christmas, and each Sunday a candle is lit, one more than the previous week. Families place advent candles in their windows, and children often have Advent calendars to count down the days until Christmas. Churches fill with songs and lights as people sing joyful carols and celebrate the coming of the holiday season.

All Saints Day: A Time to Remember

All Saints Day is observed on the first Saturday after October 30th. On this day, people in Sweden honor loved ones who have passed away. Families visit cemeteries and place candles, flowers, and wreaths on graves. As the soft candlelight glows in the dark autumn evening, it creates a peaceful and respectful atmosphere.

Midsummer: The Biggest Summer Celebration

Midsummer (or Midsommar in Swedish) is one of the most beloved holidays in Sweden. Celebrated around June 24th, it honors St. John the Baptist and marks the brightest time of the year, when the days are long and the nights are short. Families decorate a tall maypole with flowers and greenery, then dance and sing around it—especially the classic “Little Frogs” song! Children wear flower crowns and everyone enjoys traditional foods like pickled herring, potatoes, and fresh strawberries. Some even believe in a little bit of midsummer magic—like dreaming of your true love if you pick seven wildflowers and place them under your pillow!

Learn More About Swedish Traditions

Holidays are a fun way to explore a new culture and language. With Dinolingo, kids can learn Swedish through games, songs, videos, and flashcards that include holiday themes and traditions. Designed for ages 2 to 14, Dinolingo is available on web, iOS, and Android, and supports learning both online and offline—perfect for celebrating learning all year round.